US to Bolster Security Ties With PNG Amid Concerns Over Beijing–Solomons Security Deal

US to Bolster Security Ties With PNG Amid Concerns Over Beijing–Solomons Security Deal
Papua New Guinea police arrive at the airport in Honiara, Solomon Islands, on Nov. 27, 2021. Gary Ramage via AP
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The United States will seek to increase security ties with Pacific nation Papua New Guinea (PNG)—Australia’s northern neighbour—amid the fallout of a freshly minted agreement between Beijing and the Solomon Islands that could see Chinese troops and weapons stationed in the region.

Daniel Kritenbrink, the assistant secretary of state of East Asian and Pacific Affairs, told reporters on April 26 that further discussions with PNG Prime Minister James Marape would be held in the coming months, according to comments obtained by Reuters.

Daniel Y. Teng
Daniel Y. Teng
Writer
Daniel Y. Teng is based in Brisbane, Australia. He focuses on national affairs, including federal politics and Australia-China relations. Got a tip? Contact him at [email protected].
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